Why Are My Eyes Burning and Gritty? Causes of Chronic Dry Eye

Burning, gritty, irritated eyes can make everyday activities uncomfortable. While occasional dryness can happen to anyone, symptoms that keep returning may be a sign of chronic dry eye. Dry eye develops when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly to keep the surface of the eye properly lubricated. At Meredith L. Turner O.D. Family Optometry, we evaluate the possible causes of dry eye symptoms so we can recommend care based on what is affecting your eyes.

What Causes Chronic Dry Eye?

Healthy tears contain a balance of water, oil, and other components that protect and lubricate the eyes. When this balance is disrupted, the tear film may become unstable. This can lead to inflammation, irritation, fluctuating vision, and the familiar feeling that something is stuck in your eye.

Several factors may contribute to chronic dry eye, including:

•          Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)

•          Blepharitis and eyelid inflammation

•          Aging and hormonal changes

•          Prolonged computer or digital device use

•          Certain medications

•          Contact lens wear

•          Dry, windy, or smoky environments

•          Medical conditions that affect tear production or inflammation

Identifying what is contributing to your symptoms is an important part of managing dry eye effectively.

How MGD Can Lead to Burning and Gritty Eyes

Meibomian gland dysfunction, commonly called MGD, is a frequent contributor to evaporative dry eye. The meibomian glands are located along the eyelids and produce oils that help prevent tears from evaporating too quickly.

When these glands become blocked or do not release enough healthy oil, tears may evaporate faster than they should. The result can be burning, grittiness, redness, watery eyes, or blurry vision that comes and goes.

Blepharitis and Eyelid Inflammation

Blepharitis is inflammation along the edges of the eyelids. It can cause redness, irritation, crusting around the eyelashes, itching, and a gritty sensation.

Because eyelid inflammation can interfere with normal meibomian gland function, blepharitis and MGD often occur alongside dry eye symptoms. Addressing eyelid health may therefore be an important part of improving overall eye comfort.

When Dry Eye Symptoms Keep Coming Back

Temporary dryness may improve after resting your eyes or changing environmental conditions. Chronic dry eye, however, can continue despite frequently using lubricating eye drops.

Persistent symptoms may include burning, stinging, sensitivity to light, eye fatigue, redness, excess tearing, or blurry vision. If your symptoms are recurring or interfering with reading, screen use, driving, or contact lens wear, an eye examination can help determine what is happening.

Finding the Right Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. Care may focus on improving tear quality, reducing inflammation, supporting healthier eyelid function, or helping tears remain on the eyes longer. Recommendations can range from at-home care and lubricating drops to prescription or in-office treatment options.

If burning, gritty eyes are becoming a regular problem, schedule a dry eye evaluation with Meredith L. Turner O.D. Family Optometry to learn more about personalized treatment options. Contact our office in Redding, CA, by calling (530) 244-4234 to book an appointment.